10 Surprising Ways to Explore One of Europe’s Greenest Capital Cities: Zagreb
Sponsored Content by
1. Lenuci’s Green Horseshoe
In the heart of Zagreb, an elegant chain of parks and squares forms a lush ribbon of greenery, designed in the 19th century to invite nature into the city. Stroll under the towering plane trees of Zrinjevac Park, where musicians play beneath a cast-iron pavilion, or wander through the tranquil Botanical Garden, home to more than 5,000 species of plants. The Green Horseshoe is also home to the Croatian National Theatre, among myriad other historic landmarks. How to visit: Easily walkable and open year-round.
Explore
Zrinjevac Park, Zagreb.
2. Medvednica Mountain
Zagreb’s skyline gives way to the rolling slopes of Medvednica, a forested retreat just beyond the city. Hike to Medvedgrad Fortress for sweeping city views, explore the underground tunnels of Zrinski Mine, or visit Veternica Cave, home to ancient rock formations and bat colonies. Access is easier than ever before via the transformational Sljeme Cable Car, which ascends from the city’s edge into this forested retreat. How to visit: Reachable by car, bus, or Sljeme Cable Car; cave and mine tours available seasonally.
Explore
Medvedgrad Fortress on Medvednica Mountain.
Learn More
November 16, 2023
A Third Installment of the Popular Art Festival, Artupunktura, Awakens Zagreb This Fall
September 8, 2023
Discover Croatia's Stunning Capital #VisitZagreb
Explore Zagreb Through the Eyes and Works of Ivan Meštrović
April 29, 2024
Tomislav Gotovac Loves Zagreb
September 20, 2024
You Might Also Like
From Zagreb to the World: The Lasting Legacy of Julije Knifer
Sponsored Content by
Zagreb Tourist Board
Client Name
Learn More
You Might Also Like
Qorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur adipiscing elit nunc vulputate libero et
February 5, 2024
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur adipiscing elit
February 5, 2024
Qorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur adipiscing elit nunc vulputate libero et
February 5, 2024
Qorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur adipiscing elit nunc vulputate libero et
February 5, 2024
3. Green Spaces Above & Beyond
Zagreb’s skyline is dotted with rooftop terraces and green courtyards, offering serene escapes amid the city’s urban energy. Whether sipping coffee above the rooftops or stepping into a courtyard steeped in history, Zagreb offers hidden green gems around every corner. How to visit: Rooftop cafés and terraces are open year-round.
Explore
Rooftop cafés and terraces are open year-round.
4. The Botanical Garden
Established in 1889 in the heart of Zagreb, this botanical sanctuary is a masterpiece of Victorian-era landscape design. Ornamental bridges cross tranquil ponds where turtles bask in the sun, while rare orchids and exotic ferns thrive inside glass conservatories. How to visit: Open seasonally; a small entrance fee may apply.
Explore
Botanical Garden, Zagreb.
5. Jarun & Bundek Lakes
Zagreb’s two beloved urban lakes, Jarun and Bundek, offer a peaceful escape within the city. Jarun, lovingly regarded as the “Zagreb Sea,” is where many locals go to recharge: kayakers glide across the water at sunrise, runners trace the shoreline, and lakeside cafés provide a breezy retreat. In summer, it transforms into a lively festival hub. Smaller but equally scenic, Bundek features walking trails, picnic spots, and a tranquil swimming area, making it perfect for a leisurely day outdoors. How to visit: Open year-round; equipment rentals available.
Explore
Jarun Lake, Zagreb.
6. Maksimir Park
Opened in 1794, Maksimir Park is a sprawling expanse of ancient woodlands, meadows, and lakes. Designed as an English-style garden, it houses the Zagreb Zoo and offers serene walking trails where visitors can encounter diverse bird species and lush vegetation. It remains a refuge for Zagreb’s walkers, poets, and dreamers. How to visit: The park is free; zoo admission requires a fee.
Explore
Maksimir Park is among the earliest developed in Europe.
7. Evolving Culinary Scene
Zagreb’s gastronomy blends tradition with modern innovation, where time-honored dishes meet contemporary culinary trends. High-quality local ingredients take center stage, from farm-fresh produce to freshly caught Adriatic seafood sold daily at city markets. Dolac Market, the city’s culinary hub, brims with vibrant stalls of regional cheeses, cured meats, and handmade štrukli. Meanwhile, Zagreb’s rising restaurant scene reinvents Croatian flavors with creative, globally inspired twists—a number of which have made the 50 Best Discovery’s list. Where to go: Try Michelin-recognized spots or visit Dolac Market for fresh produce.
Explore
Dolac Market, Zagreb.
8. The Savica Lakes
Once the backwaters of the Sava River, the Savica Lakes are a series of twelve smaller wetland lakes in eastern Zagreb. Surrounded by lush vegetation and ample walking paths, the area is a peaceful, birdwatchers' heaven. Nearby, an ornithological station regularly hosts workshops on preservation. Species of herons, kingfishers, and other bird species in its thriving wetlands, highlighting the Sava’s rich biodiversity and ecological importance. How to get there: You can reach the location by public transport, bike, or on foot along the Sava River.
Explore
The Sava River, Zagreb.
9. Green Museums & Landmarks
Beyond art and history, Zagreb's museums reflect its innovative spirit. The Nikola Tesla Technical Museum offers insights into technological advancements, while the newly renovated Natural History Museum educates visitors on biodiversity and conservation. The Archaeological Museum digitizes artifacts to support sustainable tourism, and the Museum of Contemporary Art integrates green energy solutions. Even the city’s architecture reflects this commitment, with landmarks like Vitić Skyscraper undergoing energy-efficient restoration. How to visit: Museums are open year-round; admission fees vary.
Explore
Museum of Contemporary Art.
10. The Green Ring
Beyond Zagreb’s city center lies the Green Ring, a vast network of cycling trails that wind through forests, wetlands, and pastoral villages. Ride past colorful fields bursting with flowers, pause at a family-run café, or follow the banks of the Sava River as it carves through the countryside. How to do it: Rent a bike in the city; routes vary in difficulty.
Explore
Biking outside Zagreb in the Green Ring.
Zagreb, Croatia, is a city where urban life harmoniously intertwines with nature. Immersed in this enchanting capital, visitors will find cobblestone streets leading to botanical hideaways, medieval fortresses perched above dense forests, and serene pockets of greenery that offer a fresh perspective on city life. Here are ten ways to explore its unexpected natural beauty.
Zagreb seamlessly blends urban sophistication with natural beauty, offering visitors a multitude of ways to connect with its green spaces. Whether hiking forested hills, cycling along rivers, or savoring local flavors, the city invites exploration and discovery at every turn. Whether visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, travelers will find that nature isn’t just a backdrop here—it’s woven into the very fabric of the city.
A Green Capital with Endless Possibilities
2. Medvednica Mountain
Zagreb’s skyline gives way to the rolling slopes of Medvednica, a forested retreat just beyond the city. Hike to Medvedgrad Fortress for sweeping city views, explore the underground tunnels of Zrinski Mine, or visit Veternica Cave, home to ancient rock formations and bat colonies. Access is easier than ever before via the transformational Sljeme Cable Car, which ascends from the city’s edge into this forested retreat. How to visit: Reachable by car, bus, or Sljeme Cable Car; cave and mine tours available seasonally.
Explore
Medvedgrad Fortress on Medvednica Mountain.
2. Medvednica Mountain
Zagreb’s skyline gives way to the rolling slopes of Medvednica, a forested retreat just beyond the city. Hike to Medvedgrad Fortress for sweeping city views, explore the underground tunnels of Zrinski Mine, or visit Veternica Cave, home to ancient rock formations and bat colonies. Access is easier than ever before via the transformational Sljeme Cable Car, which ascends from the city’s edge into this forested retreat. How to visit: Reachable by car, bus, or Sljeme Cable Car; cave and mine tours available seasonally.
Explore
Medvedgrad Fortress on Medvednica Mountain.
3. Green Spaces Above & Beyond
Zagreb’s skyline is dotted with rooftop terraces and green courtyards, offering serene escapes amid the city’s urban energy. One of the most enchanting experiences is Dvorišta (The Courtyards), an annual summer festival that transforms hidden historic courtyards into lush gathering spaces filled with music, culture, and local flavors. Whether sipping coffee above the rooftops or stepping into a courtyard steeped in history, Zagreb offers hidden green gems around every corner. How to visit: Rooftop cafés and terraces are open year-round; Dvorišta takes place annually in June.
Explore
Dvorišta is an annual summer festival that transforms the city’s courtyards.
3. Green Spaces Above & Beyond
Zagreb’s skyline is dotted with rooftop terraces and green courtyards, offering serene escapes amid the city’s urban energy. One of the most enchanting experiences is Dvorišta (The Courtyards), an annual summer festival that transforms hidden historic courtyards into lush gathering spaces filled with music, culture, and local flavors. Whether sipping coffee above the rooftops or stepping into a courtyard steeped in history, Zagreb offers hidden green gems around every corner. How to visit: Rooftop cafés and terraces are open year-round; Dvorišta takes place annually in June.
Explore
Dvorišta is an annual summer festival that transforms the city’s courtyards.
5. Jarun & Bundek Lakes
Zagreb’s two beloved urban lakes, Jarun and Bundek, offer a peaceful escape within the city. Jarun, lovingly regarded as the “Zagreb Sea,” is where many locals go to recharge: kayakers glide across the water at sunrise, runners trace the shoreline, and lakeside cafés provide a breezy retreat. In summer, it transforms into a lively festival hub. Smaller but equally scenic, Bundek features walking trails, picnic spots, and a tranquil swimming area, making it perfect for a leisurely day outdoors. How to visit: Open year-round; equipment rentals available.
Explore
Jarun Lake, Zagreb.
5. Jarun & Bundek Lakes
Zagreb’s two beloved urban lakes, Jarun and Bundek, offer a peaceful escape within the city. Jarun, lovingly regarded as the “Zagreb Sea,” is where many locals go to recharge: kayakers glide across the water at sunrise, runners trace the shoreline, and lakeside cafés provide a breezy retreat. In summer, it transforms into a lively festival hub. Smaller but equally scenic, Bundek features walking trails, picnic spots, and a tranquil swimming area, making it perfect for a leisurely day outdoors. How to visit: Open year-round; equipment rentals available.
Explore
Jarun Lake, Zagreb.
7. Evolving Culinary Scene
Zagreb’s gastronomy blends tradition with modern innovation, where time-honored dishes meet contemporary culinary trends. High-quality local ingredients take center stage, from farm-fresh produce to freshly caught Adriatic seafood sold daily at city markets. Dolac Market, the city’s culinary hub, brims with vibrant stalls of regional cheeses, cured meats, and handmade štrukli. Meanwhile, Zagreb’s rising restaurant scene reinvents Croatian flavors with creative, globally inspired twists—a number of which have made the 50 Best Discovery’s list. Where to go: Try Michelin-recognized spots or visit Dolac Market for fresh produce.
Explore
Dolac Market, Zagreb.
8. The Savica Lakes
Once the backwaters of the Sava River, the Savica Lakes are a series of twelve smaller wetland lakes in eastern Zagreb. Surrounded by lush vegetation and ample walking paths, the area is a peaceful, birdwatchers' heaven. Nearby, an ornithological station regularly hosts workshops on preservation. Species of herons, kingfishers, and other bird species in its thriving wetlands, highlighting the Sava’s rich biodiversity and ecological importance. How to visit: Kayak and rafting tours are available during warmer months.
Explore
The Savica Lakes, Zagreb.
6. Maksimir Park
Opened in 1794, Maksimir Park is a sprawling expanse of ancient woodlands, meadows, and lakes. Designed as an English-style garden, it houses the Zagreb Zoo and offers serene walking trails where visitors can encounter diverse bird species and lush vegetation. It remains a refuge for Zagreb’s walkers, poets, and dreamers. How to visit: The park is free; zoo admission requires a fee.
Explore
Maksimir Park is among the earliest developed in Europe.
